Other Efforts to Enforce the Civil Rights LawsOCR Regulatory and Policy Guidance

OCR strives to communicate clearly how the civil rights laws apply in particular
situations to help people understand their rights and education institutions understand
their obligations. Clearly articulated standards enable OCR staff to make consistent
compliance determinations that are legally supportable and based on a fair and
thorough analysis of information.

A July 28, 2003, Dear Colleague Letter was issued to postsecondary institutions
regarding the application of the civil rights laws and First Amendment issues.
It confirms that OCR's regulations and policies do not require or prescribe
speech, conduct or harassment codes that impair the exercise of rights protected
under the First Amendment.